10 Stunning Lakes in Wyoming That Will Leave You Speechless
Wyoming holds some of America’s most breathtaking lakes, each offering crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering mountains and untouched wilderness. From hidden alpine gems tucked away in remote valleys to famous destinations that attract visitors from around the world, these natural wonders showcase the state’s incredible beauty. Pack your hiking boots and camera because these spectacular lakes will create memories that last a lifetime.
1. Lake Alice, Lincoln County
Tucked away in the Bridger-Teton National Forest, this hidden gem sits at 9,000 feet elevation like a secret waiting to be discovered. Crystal-clear waters reflect towering pine trees and granite cliffs in perfect mirror images. Wildlife often visits the shoreline during early morning hours.
Reaching this alpine paradise requires a moderate 3-mile hike through dense forest trails. The journey rewards adventurous visitors with solitude and pristine wilderness views. Fishing enthusiasts will find native cutthroat trout swimming in the deep, cold waters throughout summer months.
2. Lewis Lake, Teton County
Peaceful waters stretch across 2,700 acres in southern Yellowstone National Park, offering visitors a quieter alternative to busier destinations. Shallow bays warm up nicely during summer, making swimming surprisingly comfortable. Moose frequently wade through marshy areas along the eastern shoreline.
Canoe and kayak rentals provide easy access to secluded coves perfect for wildlife watching. Brown and lake trout inhabit deeper sections, attracting serious anglers year-round. The surrounding lodgepole pine forest creates a serene backdrop that photographers absolutely love capturing during golden hour lighting.
3. Taggart Lake, Teton County
Adventure begins with a 1.5-mile trail that winds through aspen groves and wildflower meadows toward dramatic mountain views. Grand Teton’s towering peaks create an incredible backdrop that makes every photo look like a postcard. Glacier-fed waters remain refreshingly cold even during hot summer days.
Families love this accessible hike because children can easily complete the gentle uphill journey. Rock formations along the shoreline provide perfect spots for picnic lunches and quiet reflection. Early morning visits often reward hikers with wildlife sightings including deer, marmots, and various bird species throughout the area.
4. Leigh Lake, Teton County
Calm waters stretch for two miles beneath the dramatic Teton Range, creating perfect conditions for paddling and peaceful contemplation. No motorized boats disturb the tranquil atmosphere, making this destination ideal for quiet nature experiences. Beaver dams dot the northern end where wetlands attract diverse bird populations.
String Lake connects to this larger body of water via a short, easy trail suitable for all ages. Photographers flock here during sunrise when alpenglow paints the mountain peaks in brilliant pink and orange colors. The shallow southern end warms up enough for brave swimmers during peak summer months.
5. Jenny Lake, Teton County
Sparkling waters sit like a jewel at the base of the magnificent Teton Range, attracting over one million visitors annually to this iconic destination. Boat shuttles transport hikers across the lake to access famous waterfall trails and challenging mountain climbs. Crystal-clear depths reveal smooth stones and occasional fish swimming near the surface.
Walking the entire shoreline takes about three hours on well-maintained paths suitable for most fitness levels. Rental boats, kayaks, and canoes allow visitors to explore hidden coves and enjoy unique mountain perspectives from the water. Sunset views from the western shore create unforgettable memories that define Wyoming’s natural beauty.
6. Phelps Lake, Teton County
Emerald waters shimmer beneath towering cliffs where brave visitors leap from the famous jumping rock into refreshingly cold mountain water below. This 2-mile hike through sagebrush and aspen forest leads to one of Wyoming’s most Instagram-worthy destinations. Swimming here feels like diving into liquid gemstones surrounded by wilderness.
Death Canyon Shelf provides dramatic views of the entire Teton Valley spread out like a living map. Wildlife sightings include black bears, so proper food storage becomes essential during visits. The return hike offers completely different perspectives, making the entire journey feel like two separate adventures in one incredible day.
7. Lower Slide Lake, Teton County
Born from a massive landslide in 1925, this unique lake tells a fascinating geological story while offering spectacular fishing opportunities for native cutthroat trout. Steep canyon walls rise dramatically from the water’s edge, creating an almost mystical atmosphere. Few crowds venture here, ensuring peaceful solitude for serious nature lovers.
Accessing this remote destination requires a challenging 6-mile hike through varied terrain including stream crossings and rocky sections. Camping permits allow overnight stays where star-filled skies reflect perfectly in the still water surface. The dramatic origin story adds extra intrigue to an already breathtaking natural wonder.
8. Jackson Lake, Teton County
Massive waters stretch across 25,540 acres, making this the largest lake in Grand Teton National Park and a paradise for boating enthusiasts. Marinas provide full services including boat rentals, fuel, and supplies for extended water adventures. Multiple boat launches accommodate everything from small fishing boats to large recreational vessels.
Fifteen different campgrounds ring the shoreline, offering everything from primitive sites to full hookup facilities for RVs. Mountain reflections create picture-perfect scenes that change throughout the day as light shifts across the Teton peaks. Fishing guides lead successful trips targeting lake trout, cutthroat trout, and mountain whitefish in these productive waters.
9. Flaming Gorge Reservoir, Sweetwater County
Brilliant red canyon walls surround 91 miles of pristine water, creating one of America’s most scenic reservoir destinations for water sports and fishing adventures. Lake trout grow to massive sizes in these deep, cold waters, attracting serious anglers from across the country. Houseboats provide unique accommodations for extended stays.
Multiple recreation areas offer boat ramps, campgrounds, and visitor centers with educational displays about the area’s natural and cultural history. Water skiing, wakeboarding, and jet skiing thrive in protected coves and open water areas. The dramatic landscape combines desert colors with alpine forests, creating an unforgettable visual experience unlike anywhere else in Wyoming.
10. Yellowstone Lake, Teton County
North America’s largest high-altitude lake sits at 7,732 feet elevation, covering 136 square miles of pristine wilderness in the heart of Yellowstone National Park. Thermal features create warm spots along certain shorelines where hot springs bubble up through the lake bottom. Native cutthroat trout populations support healthy grizzly bear and osprey communities.
Boat tours depart from Bridge Bay Marina, offering guided explorations of remote islands and thermal areas accessible only by water. Sudden weather changes can create dangerous conditions, so proper preparation becomes essential for any water activities. The massive size and wild setting make this truly one of America’s most impressive natural wonders.
